Phra Pradaeng Songkran 2026: Dates, Parade Schedule, and Water Play Spots

Updated details on Phra Pradaeng Songkran 2026, held from 24–26 April 2026 at Phra Pradaeng District Office, Samut Prakan Province. Check the schedule for the Nang Songkran parade, the Mon Sabaa game, and how to get there for water activities.

Get ready for Thailand’s biggest year-end water festival, "Phra Pradaeng Songkran 2026," also known as Pak Lad Songkran. This year, the official event runs from 24 to 26 April 2026, inviting tourists to experience the beauty of the traditional Nang Songkran parade in the style of the Thai Mon community. Here’s an update on the highlights and how to travel, all in one place.

When is Phra Pradaeng Songkran 2026?

The Phra Pradaeng Songkran tradition in Samut Prakan Province will be celebrated grandly over three full days: 24, 25, and 26 April 2026. The festivities take place at the Phra Pradaeng District Office and surrounding areas of Phra Pradaeng Municipality. This period is when the Thai Mon community comes together to preserve their long-standing traditional customs.

Event Schedule and Highlights

The three-day program showcases the rarely seen Pak Lad Mon culture, including:

• Nang Songkran Parade: An elaborately decorated flower float procession featuring beauties dressed in traditional Thai Mon attire, who carry fish and birds to be released during a merit-making ceremony.
• Bird and Fish Release Ceremony: According to Mon beliefs, held at Wat Prodket Chettharam Temple for good fortune and to show compassion for all living creatures.
• Mon Sabaa Game: Observe courtship rituals of young Mon men and women at the "Sabaa Pond" events organized in various villages across the area.
• Mon Tha-ye Performance: A distinctive folk singing and dancing art unique to the Pak Lad Mon community.

History and Charm of the Unique "Pak Lad Songkran"

Phra Pradaeng Songkran, originally called “Pak Lad Songkran,” is a Songkran festival of the Thai Mon ethnic group (Thai Ramanya) dating back more than 180 years. It is held about a week later than the regular Songkran according to the local tradition calendar. The festival strongly preserves Mon identity through traditional clothing with shawls, preparation of classic rice in cold water dishes, and the making of "Kalamae," a renowned sweet treat from Phra Pradaeng often served to guests during this merit-making event.

How to Get to Phra Pradaeng Songkran 2026

Because roads will be closed and traffic is expected to be heavy—especially on 26 April—planning your trip in advance is essential.

1. Public Transportation

• Bus: Bus lines near the event include routes 82 (Phra Pradaeng–Sanam Luang), 138 (Phra Pradaeng–Mo Chit 2), 506 (Pak Kret–Phra Pradaeng), and 6 (Phra Pradaeng–Bang Lamphu).
• BTS Skytrain: Get off at Samrong Station, then transfer to a songthaew or van heading to "Phra Pradaeng Pier."

2. Ferry

The most popular way to avoid traffic jams is by ferry crossing the Chao Phraya River to the Phra Pradaeng side.

• Pu Chao Saming Phrai Pier (Samut Prakan side): Take the ferry to Petra Pier or Phra Pradaeng Pier.
• Bang Na Pier: Ferries also run from here to Phra Pradaeng.

3. Private Car and Parking Spots

If driving is necessary, it’s best to set your destination to the "Phra Pradaeng District Office." Due to limited parking at the event, it’s recommended to park at nearby lots approved by the Phra Pradaeng Police Station, such as:

• Phra Pradaeng Arcade area
• Private parking lots on the outskirts, then take a motorcycle taxi to the event.

Important Notes and Road Closures

On 26 April 2026, the day of Phra Pradaeng’s flowing day, Suksawat Road and roads around Phra Pradaeng Market will be closed from the afternoon for the parade. Visitors should allow at least 1-2 hours for travel and prepare waterproof phone pouches in advance.